Edward Henry: Notable case

Chippenham Magistrates today adjourned all criminal accusations against David Brudenell-Bruce, Earl of Cardigan and referred all cases to the High Court to consider whether the proceedings are an abuse of process.

The procedure, known as Judicial Review, will allow the High Court to examine claims advanced by Edward Henry, Lord Cardigan's counsel, that the Police and the CPS had engaged in an abuse of process.

The magistrates heard Henry level a series of accusations which the CPS and Police must answer. These include: • That it was unfair for Lord Cardigan to be tried as the complaints were motivated by the desire to undermine his character and reputation in linked civil litigation;• That proper charging standards had not been followed by the Police and CPS; and that • In consequence, the continuance of these prosecutions was in breach of natural justice.

The Magistrates said that the background to the complaints against Lord Cardigan would not go away and ruled that the High Court should decide whether it was fair for him to be tried.

Lord Cardigan said: "I am pleased that this whole saga, a concerted campaign against me, shall now be put under scrutiny by the High Court."

He continued: "These charges have been orchestrated to damage my reputation and groundless claims against me have been referred to by my trustees in resisting my action to have them removed."

"I welcome the Court's decision which will allow daylight to be cast on the conduct of the Police, witnesses and CPS."